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Upper Mustang Overland Tour

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  • Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

Trip Costs: US$ 1928

Overview

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers a fascinating journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich regions, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” This rugged and arid landscape, lying in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, was once part of the ancient Tibetan kingdom and retains a strong Tibetan Buddhist influence. Travelers experience dramatic scenery — from wind-eroded cliffs and colorful rock formations to centuries-old caves and monasteries — all set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and expansive desert valleys.

Unlike traditional trekking routes, the overland tour allows visitors to explore Upper Mustang by jeep, making it accessible even for those with limited time or who prefer less physically demanding travel. The journey typically starts in Jomsom and follows a rough, scenic road through historic villages like Kagbeni, Tsarang, and the walled city of Lo Manthang. Along the way, travelers can visit ancient gompas (monasteries), interact with local people, and witness unique festivals, rituals, and traditional lifestyles that have remained largely untouched by modern development.

The best time for the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is during the monsoon season (June to September) when the region stays dry and clear, thanks to its location north of the main Himalayan range. This tour offers a rare chance to experience both breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and deep cultural immersion, all without the physical strain of long trekking days. It’s an ideal adventure for travelers seeking

Trip highlights

  • Drive through the restricted territory of Upper Mustang and Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Explore the forbidden ancient Kingdom of Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang
  • Aerial views of the Annapurna Massif, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri mountain range on the flight to and from Jomsom
  • Journey through Kaligandaki George, the world deepest
  • Stunning views of mountains like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tilicho, and Annapurna I
  • Pass through Tatopani-hot spring, Marpha, Jomsom, Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, and Muktinath
  • Overnight stay at villages with Chortens, monasteries, gompas, and religious shrines
  • Visit Muktinath Temple, its territories, some Buddhist gompas and monasteries around
  • Enjoy tasting the renowned local apples, apple pie and apple wine (marpha) in Jomsom
  • Take a tour of the picturesque city of Pokhara which includes its lakes, caves, temples, and waterfalls

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

As you fly into Kathmandu, you'll have beautiful views over the valley, the snow capped mountain peaks in Himalaya, and of the terraced fields below. As per your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel.
Overnight in Hotel

Day 02: Fully day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu

Today after the breakfast we will proceed for sightseeing tour in and around the Kathmandu valley. The Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath temple, Swoyambhunath temple and Boudhanath temple are the major sight-seeing areas around the Kathmandu valley. These all are listed in a world heritage sites. The Durbar Square shows us the regal life of ancient periods. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimages. Swoyambhunath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is the Buddhist temple which is very popular around the globe. Swoyambhunath is also known as money temple stands on the hilltop west of the Kathmandu valley. It can also be known as the viewpoint of Kathmandu valley. Boudhanath temple is the biggest Chhorten ever made around the world.
Overnight in Hotel

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m.) – approx. 6 hours.

You depart for the six hours drive to Pokhara (915m,), 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu. As you climb out of the Kathmandu valley, only to quickly descend again to the Trisuli River, you follow upstream to its junction with the Marsyangdi River. You follow the Marsyandi gently up through heavily terraced fields and small hill towns to the Seti River that takes you directly into Pokhara. Having pleasant weather, Pokhara is tourist's paradise with full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with mountains. You can observe views to the north across the hills and Phewa Tal (lake) to the white peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This drive will take most of the morning, leaving much of the afternoon to fall in love with its beauty.
Overnight in Hotel

Day 04: Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom (2700m.) – approx. 25 minutes. Further drive to Ghami (3520m.) – approx. 4 to 5 hours.

Take a flight in the morning from Pokhara Airport to Jomsom Domestic Airport in Mustang, which will take about 25 minutes. Jomsom is the commercial and tourist hub of the mystical Mustang region due to the accessibility of an airport and decent roads. After landing at Jomsom, you will take a drive to Ghami Village.

You are likely to witness trekkers and locals walking along the dusty road. The drive will take you through Kagbeni village at the entrance of the lower Mustang region. From there, the dirt roads will take you to the Chele check post at the opening of the Upper Mustang region. Passing by Samar and Syangboche villages in the Kali Gandaki river valley, you will finally reach Ghami.

Ghami is known predominantly for its white-washed mud and stone houses. Traverse through the narrow alleyways along the street and interact with the locals to understand their religion and culture.
Overnight in teahouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 05: Drive from Ghami to Lo Manthang (3730m.) – approx. 3 to 4 hours.

After sipping some butter tea or coffee early in the morning along with traditional breakfast, you will take a drive to Lo Manthang, further above Ghami. On the way, you will pass by the Ghami river, Charang river, and the Dokpolo river. You will also be crossing the pass of Tsarang La at the altitude of 3870m. Along the way, you will be greeted by the up-close views of Annapurna I, Tilicho, Nilgiri, and other mountain ranges. As you reach near the famed walled city, you will witness the longest mani wall of Upper Mustang.

Welcome to the capital of the Upper Mustang Kingdom, Lo Manthang. The ancient and aesthetic white-washed houses will welcome you in the arid land. After taking some rest, you can head out to explore Lo by traversing around the streets. 
Overnight in teahouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 06: Explore Lo Manthang.

This is an exploration day set aside to witness what Lo Manthang has to offer. After breakfast, you can plan to visit some monasteries and temples of significance, as time permits. Lo Manthang depicts an accurate picture of the great Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions. Hiking on foot is the best way to explore the nooks and crannies of this majestic city built between the dry terrain. Occupied mainly by the ethnic Lhoba and Bon tribe, Lo is heavily a Buddist locality.

To understand the history of the ancient kingdom, you can visit the five-storied King’s Palace, built during the 1400s, making it the oldest structure in the city. The ceremonial king and queen currently reside with their family in the palace and attend auspicious festivals like Tiji.

Further, you can also visit the Champa Lhakang, a significant Buddhist temple with a giant Buddha statue with walls painted with Mandala. From there, you can take a hike to the Namgyal Gompa, another religious monastery and a local courthouse, for legal disposition. In the Monastic Museum, you can also interact with the young student monks studying at the Tsechen Shedrubling Monastery School.
Overnight in teahouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 07: Drive from Lo Manthang to Muktinath (3800m.) and then drive to Jomsom (2700m.) - approx. 6 to 7 hours

After exploring Lo Manthang, you will finally bid farewell to the mystical land of Upper Mustang and drive off to a religiously significant Muktinath temple. This is one of the biggest highlights of the trek apart from the visit to Lo Manthang. The drive today will take you on a dirt road mostly downhill.

You will make a detour to Muktinath temple, where you will witness decent hotels and shops along the way. The temple, although small, has a vibrant aura that keeps your spirit at peace. There are many spring taps and two small ponds, the water of which is said to cleanse the soul of any sins committed. Hence, you might observe many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims taking a bath there.

After your brief stop at Muktinath, you will drive back to Jomsom. Along the road, you will witness views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains popping up now and then. You can witness the locals walking their cattle after day-long grazing. This is the final glimpse of the dusty, ancient city that seems far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

After reaching Jomsom, you can enjoy some local apple booze, dance to the rhythm of the local songs, and listen to folktales. Overnight in teahouse. Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 08: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (800m.) – approx. 25 minutes

Wake up before dawn to catch the morning sun shining over the horizon. After having breakfast, bid farewell to the lovely locals and head to the domestic airport. Your flight to Pokhara will be short and amazing, as you are offered a bird’s eye view of the Annapurna Massif and the surrounding mountain range.

After reaching Pokhara, relax at your hotel, then head out to explore the city. Depending upon your arrival time, you can visit the Mahendra Cave, Bat cave, Davis Falls, and even the International Mountain Museum. Pokhara is also known for its nightlife, so if you are a party animal, the lively pubs and clubs surrounding the Phewa Lakeside are for you.
Overnight in Hotel

Day 09: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – approx. 7 hours.

We drive back to Kathmandu on the same highway we took to Pokhara earlier. Another seven hours on the highway will give us time to observe the villages and towns on the way from a different angle. After reaching Kathmandu and checking into the hotel, we will have some free time to wander around the streets of Thamel.
Overnight in Hotel

Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu.

As per your flight time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home or any other destinations. The airport check-in is 3 hours prior to the departure time and the hotel checkout time is 12 PM.

Or inform us if you want to stay longer for short tours such as Jungle Safari at National Parks, Mountain Biking, Rafting, a Tibet tour, a Tour to Bhutan or India Tour. We will be happy to assist you.

  • Trip facts

  • Trip duration : 10 days
  • Grade : Moderate
  • Activity : Cultural sightseeing tour, Overland Tour with Trekking
  • Starts in : Kathmandu
  • End in : Kathmandu
  • Trek Type : Tea House
  • Accomodation : Hotel & lodge (tea house)
  • Max Altitude : 3800 m

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop off services by private A/C vehicle
  • 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu on twin /double sharing basis with breakfast only
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with English Speaking local Tour Guide and entry fees
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu ground transportation by private vehicle
  • Transfer from Pokhara to Jomsom and from Jomsom to Pokhara by domestic flight
  • 4WD Jeep Pokhara to Lo-Mangthang to Muktinath to Pokhara by 4WD Land Cruiser/Mahindra Scorpio
  • All meals during the trip
  • Accommodation in Tea House
  • English speaking local expert guide, porters (ratio:2 members=1 porter) during the trek (per member max 12-13kg weight)
  • Upper Mustang Restricted area permit fee
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • Annapurna Conservation Fees
  • Equipment clothing for porter & staffs for the trek
  • Insurance for all staff & porters
  • Rescue assistance (Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. For this, we recommend you to have your own travel insurance that can cover helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost in case required.)
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
  • All tax, VAT and company service charge

Cost Excludes

  • International flight & any other airfares
  • Nepal visa
  • Extra baggage charge if any (weight allowance 12kg+3 kg in domestic flight)
  • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips for Guide, porters, drivers etc.
  • Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason
  • Personal expenses such as table drinks, snacks while walking, hot water/shower, internet, telephone etc during the Overland tour
  • Clients insurance and Medical expenses
  • Any other tours, transfers and hotel accommodations other than mentioned above
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu

Gallery

Extension Tours

Paragliding
Jungle Safari
Pokhara Tour
Rafting

Necessary Information

1. Visa to Nepal

You can obtain the Nepalese visa from Nepalese consulate in your country easily or upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. For that, you require a valid passport with 2 copies of passport size photos. Similarly, A visa for Nepal can be obtained at Nepal India border entry point at Birgunj, Nepalgunj, Kakadvitta, Bhairahawa, Gaddachowki and Kodari on the Nepal China border. A15/30/90 day multiple entries Nepalese visa can be obtained by paying USD 30/50/125 or equivalent foreign currency respectively. For more information, please visit http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa

2. Welcoming upon your arrival in Nepal

We will be at the airport to welcome you upon your arrival to Nepal. We will be carrying the Raj BalaTreks & Expedition placard with your name underneath. From airport you will escorted to your hotel and we help you to check-in.

3. What kind of Jeep will be used for this overland Tour?

We use 4X4 Toyota Land Cruser or 4X4 Mahindra Scorpio for our Upper mustang jeep tour. Regarding the drivers they are very experienced for off road driving. Until now they have 100% safety records.

4. Health Issues and Vaccinations Requirement for Upper Mustang Overland Tour

As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.

The main health consideration during this trip is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and handle the low oxygen rate.

If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you to consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude areas before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.

5. Difficulty Level of the trek

Upper Mustang jeep tour is designed for those travelers who are physically or timely unable to do trekking in Mustang. It is suitable for people of all age groups, child to elder.

6. Experience of stay at Tea House

Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a tea house trip. A Nepalese tea house is a lodge or guest house located in one of the trekking regions in the Nepal Himalayas. At the end of the day’s trip you pitch up and have a room and food provided. Staying at tea houses in mountains in Nepal is an incredible experience.

7. Accommodation on the trip

There are plenty of basic, clean and friendly lodges along the trail. You often have to share rooms but you can also stay in single rooms where possible. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. A few have electric blanket, hot bags (luxury lodges) and all have a spacious dining room-lounge.

We will accommodate you and your group in a comfortable local lodge each day. The Guide coordinates with the local lodge owners and a porter is sent ahead to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot always be booked in advance).

8. Food on the Trek

On this trip, we have breakfast and dinner in the tea-houses/lodges we spend the night and lunch on our way to the next destination. Nepalese, Tibetan, the more common continental and Indian cuisines are common choices in the menu.

To get an idea about your meals on the go, breakfast comprises a hot beverage, toasts, pancakes, eggs, etc. while lunch will include rice items, noodles, potato varieties, pizza, pasta, burger, meat items, and so on. The starters in dinnertime are soup varieties while the main course includes more or less similar items as that of lunch menu, including a dessert item and a hot beverage.

9. A Typical Day on a Tea House Trek in Nepal

We provide a comfortable experience on our teahouse lodge-style treks. Our team works hard to support you so that you can relax and enjoy trekking in Nepal. The lodges provide your meals in a communal dining room. There is a range in standard and service in teahouse lodges depending on location. i.e. lodges at higher altitude and places with fewer trekkers tend to have more basic facilities.

The day starts with getting up in your room shared with another trekker in our group. Before heading for breakfast you pack your overnight gear into your duffel bag. You would have given your breakfast orders to the guide to pass onto the kitchen last night. At the designated time the group will assemble in the dining room to eat breakfast. The menu has a range of items to choose from such as porridge, cereals, chapattis, and a choice of egg dishes. There is also the choice of tea or coffee plus other hot drinks like the popular ginger, lemon honey drink.

While the group is having breakfast the porters arrange their loads and set off in the cool of the morning. After breakfast, between 7am and 8am, we start trekking. The pace of the trek is moderate as there is plenty of time in the itinerary to reach the lodge for tonight. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, take photos and explore the local villages. Lunch will be around midday at a teahouse lodge by the side of the trail.

After lunch, we continue the trek and on most days we arrive at the lodge by mid-afternoon. For dinner, you get a two-course dinner (soup and main meal). The menus are quite standard with a range of dishes such as dal bhat, momos and the famous Sherpa stew. Dal bhat is a Nepalese dish of rice and lentils with vegetable curry. It is also possible to order spaghetti and pasta; pizzas; vegetable burgers and chips and fried rice.

After the meal, the leaders will discuss the plan for the next day. Afterwards, people might stay in the dining room chatting about the day’s events or playing cards. After a tiring day, most people head to their rooms quite early for the night. Tomorrow is likely to be very similar to today!

We cater for a variety of dietary requirements. There are always meals that are suitable for vegetarians. During booking, we find out if you have any dietary needs and agree upon meal plans before departure. If you have any questions about the food provided please get in touch with us to discuss further.

10. Land Transfers

We take a private land transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You will be travelling by domestic plane from Pokhara to Jomsom and from Jomsom to Pokhara. There will be 4WD Jeep Jomsom to Lo-Mangthang to Muktinath to Jomsom by 4WD Land Cruiser/Mahindra Scorpio

11. Personal Expenses – Approximate money you should carry on the trip

Our 10 days Upper Mustang Overland Tour cost is all inclusive of your accommodation, meals, permits and other official expenses.(See price includes and excludes section for more detail). Besides, other expenses depend on your spending habits. A USD 10-15 is sufficient to buy bottled water, snacks, chocolate bars, hot and cold drinks, and showers during the trek besides your included meals and accommodation.

12. Money Exchange

You can exchange money at a Bank or the money exchange counter in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Many Tourist class Hotels have money exchange facilities. For Trekking, there are Banks and exchange counters at major Tourist hubs like Namche and Lukla. These days, there are availability of ATMs everywhere in Kathmandu and some in Lukla and Namche.

13. Tips

Tips are appreciated by your support team after the completion of your trekking in Nepal. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise that you can allocate 5- 10 % of the total tour cost as tips. It is recommended that you talk to the members and hand it over individually as per the hierarchy on the last day of the trek.

14. Facility of communication available on trek

Communication during Upper Mustang Overland Tour is not challenging but there are certain things to be considered. Phone reception is available in most of the places during the trek.  Likewise, WIFI services are also available on the trail. To use WIFI services, you are expected to pay a fee. These fees increase as you scale up the higher altitude. Usually, the cost of WIFI services ranges about NPR 400-500 each depending upon the location you are staying in. And another option to stay connected with your family back home is by using an internet data package if you have a local SIM card. You can buy a SIM card around the street of your trip hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara or ask your guide to arrange it one for you. However, we must inform you that internet service may not be strong in all places.

15. Luggage while trekking

During Upper Mustang Overland Tour, your main luggage will be carried by porter. Please keep your luggage as light as possible around 12 to 15 kgs for travel safety and porter welfare as per IPPG standard. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket etc. You can leave your valuable items at your hotel in Kathmandu while trekking. Many hotels have a locker system and provide a deposit slip for the valuables kept under the hotel's safekeeping.

16. Physical Fitness

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is designed to be accessible to a wide range of travelers, as it primarily involves traveling by jeep across rugged, high-altitude terrain rather than long trekking days on foot. However, a moderate level of physical fitness is still recommended, as the tour reaches elevations of over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet), where thinner air can cause altitude-related discomfort. Travelers should be prepared for bumpy roads, occasional short walks to explore monasteries, caves, and villages, and spending several hours in a vehicle each day. While no intensive trekking is required, good general health, the ability to handle altitude, and a flexible, adventurous attitude are essential to fully enjoy the journey through this remote Himalayan landscape.

17. Best Time to do the Trip

The best time to do the Upper Mustang Overland Tour is between April and November, when the weather is dry, the skies are clear, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Thanks to its location in the Himalayan rain shadow, Upper Mustang remains one of Nepal’s few destinations that’s perfect even during the summer monsoon (June–August), unlike other trekking regions. Spring and autumn are especially popular for their pleasant temperatures, stunning mountain views, and cultural festivals, making them the ideal seasons for an unforgettable overland journey.

18. First Aid Kit

We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors and a user’s manual. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients, we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have.

19. Rescue /Evacuation

Your safety and security are our top priority, and we always make sure that nothing untoward happen to you. However, if anything serious like sickness or a casualty occurs, we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. As you are responsible for all the expenses incurred in evacuation, please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it.

20. Drinking Water on the Tour / Trek

Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for touring and trekking. You have to consume at least 4 liters or more of water to counter sweat-induced water loss. While natural water sources like rivers and springs are abundant on the trails, they are unsafe for direct consumption. To address this, tea shops heat water and offer it to trekkers. Boiled water is available for free at tea houses, but at tea shops, a small fee of USD 1 or 2 may be charged.

An alternative is purifying tap water using purification tablets. It’s advisable to carry a water bottle with a built-in filtration system, allowing you to filter water from natural sources along the trail. If you prefer the conveniences of bottled water, mineral water bottles are available for purchase at around $2 to $3. Although we strictly discourage the use of one-time plastic bottles on the trek path due to the increasing issue of plastic waste on the trekking trails.

21. All our guides are certified guides

All our guides are certified and trained trekking leaders. Our guides are certified by the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM), Nepal. They have years of experience working in this line of work and know the different trekking trails of Nepal, mountain ranges, culture, and mountain sickness

22. Booking Procedure

Your booking of Upper Mustang Overland Tour will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of 20% of the total trip and the signed copy of booking form and contract. The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.

23. Cancellation Policy

If you cancel your booking, the following scale of charges will apply:

  • 2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (20% of the total trip)
  • 29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost
  • 10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost
  • Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost

Additional Information

1. Where is Upper Mustang Overland Tour Region?

The Upper Mustang region is located in the far north of Nepal, bordering the Tibetan Plateau, within the Mustang District of Gandaki Province. Often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, this remote area was once part of an ancient Himalayan kingdom and remained closed to outsiders until 1992. Geographically, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, giving it a dramatic, arid landscape of eroded cliffs, red and ochre canyons, and windswept valleys that contrast sharply with the lush regions of lower Nepal. The walled capital, Lo Manthang, is the cultural heart of Upper Mustang, offering a rare glimpse into a preserved Tibetan Buddhist culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Reaching Upper Mustang typically requires a special trekking permit, with access through Jomsom, either by trek or overland jeep tour.

2. Why This Tour is a Special Experience?

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is a special experience because it offers travelers a rare journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally preserved regions, often called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom.” Unlike other Himalayan adventures that require strenuous trekking, this tour allows you to explore the breathtaking desert-like landscapes, medieval walled city of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, and centuries-old cave dwellings by jeep, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers. The dramatic views of wind-eroded cliffs, snow-capped peaks, and deep gorges, combined with encounters with Tibetan Buddhist traditions, local festivals, and welcoming Mustang communities, create a deeply immersive cultural adventure. Adding to its uniqueness, Upper Mustang lies in the rain shadow, making it one of the few Himalayan destinations perfect to visit even during Nepal’s monsoon season.

3. Who Can Do Upper Mustang Overland Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including families, senior travelers, cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers who want to experience the beauty and mystique of Mustang without the physical demands of a long trek. Since most of the journey is done by jeep, no previous trekking experience or high level of fitness is required — just a reasonable ability to handle high-altitude travel (up to 3,800 meters) and bumpy mountain roads. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to explore remote Himalayan landscapes, ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture, and historic sites like Lo Manthang in comfort. However, travelers should be in generally good health and have an adventurous spirit to fully enjoy this unique and off-the-beaten-path journey.

4. Upper Mustang Overland Tour Distance

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour typically covers a round-trip distance of approximately 400 to 450 kilometers (about 250 to 280 miles), depending on the specific route and side trips included. The journey usually starts from Pokhara, with a drive or flight to Jomsom, followed by an overland jeep adventure through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, up to the walled city of Lo Manthang near the Tibetan border. Along the way, travelers traverse rough, off-road mountain tracks, crossing high passes like Ghami La (3,520 m) and Tsarang La (3,870 m), while exploring remote villages, monasteries, and caves. While the road distance may seem moderate, the rugged, winding Himalayan terrain makes this a multi-day adventure, with daily drives ranging from 4 to 7 hours, offering breathtaking views and cultural stops along the way.

5. Flora and Fauna on Upper Mustang Overland Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour takes travelers through a strikingly arid, high-altitude landscape where the flora and fauna are uniquely adapted to the harsh Himalayan environment. You’ll encounter sparse alpine vegetation such as juniper, thorny bushes, and hardy grasses, along with vibrant fields of buckwheat and barley near the villages, which thrive despite the dry, desert-like conditions. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, and even elusive snow leopards in the higher, more remote areas, while golden eagles and Himalayan griffon vultures soar across the dramatic cliffs and skies. Though Upper Mustang’s landscape appears barren at first glance, it holds a surprising richness of life, shaped by centuries of adaptation to its rain-shadow location and extreme altitude — offering a fascinating glimpse into one of Nepal’s most unique ecological zones.

6. Upper Mustang Overland Tour Equipments and Gears

For the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, travelers should pack carefully to handle the region’s high-altitude, dry, and often windy conditions. While heavy trekking gear isn’t needed since most of the journey is by jeep, essential equipment includes layered clothing (thermal base layers, fleece, and a windproof down jacket), a good sun hat, UV-protection sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield against the intense high-altitude sun. Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots are recommended for exploring villages and monasteries, along with a daypack for water, snacks, and essentials during daily outings. Don’t forget lip balm, moisturizer, and a personal first aid kit, including altitude sickness medication if advised by your doctor. Since the region can get cold at night, even in summer, packing warm gloves and a hat is wise. Lastly, bring a camera or smartphone with extra batteries or a power bank — you’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes and timeless Tibetan culture along the way.

7. Alternative Trips in Mustang Trek Region

If you are looking for alternative treks into this beautiful region, we have more options for this trekking region.

  1. Upper Mustang Trek
  2. Upper Mustang Trek with Tiji Festival
8. Kathmandu Accommodation for Upper Mustang Overland Tour

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be promptly transported to your designated hotel, a comfortable and well-maintained 3 star hotel. Your stay includes twin-sharing/double accommodation with breakfast. All the rooms have a private bathroom, TV, and ample storage for your luggage.

If you desire a more exclusive experience, you can upgrade to single occupancy or enhance your stay to a 4- or 5-star hotel at an additional charge.

9. Attached Toilet/bathroom Facilities During Upper Mustang Overland Tour

On Upper Mustang Overland touring trail, the choice of accommodation is limited to a local and traditional lodge known as tea-houses. These lodges have basic rooms often shared with others but they do have toilets and shower facilities. As Upper Mustang region being one of the world's most popular trekking areas and also the flow of trekkers increasing every year, the standard of the services these tea-houses provide has become better with comfortable and cosy rooms and even attached toilets at some locations.

10. Travel Insurance for Upper Mustang Overland Tour

Having travel insurance that covers high-altitude adventure activities (above 5,000 m) is mandatory. This includes contingencies like flight disruptions, accidents, and emergency evacuations.

You can buy such insurance online from various providers. Some of the common choices based on client experiences for Upper Mustang Overland Tour include:

    USA and Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomad, Blue Cross

    Australia and New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia

    Singapore: Ergo, World Nomad (Explore plan level 3)

    Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe

    India: ICICI Lombard

However, please ensure that the policy covers trekking up to 6,000 m altitude. While these are just suggestions, the policies, and coverage may vary accordingly. Contact these insurers directly to inquire about their offerings before making a purchase.

11. Phone and Gadgets Charging

During the Upper Mustang Overland Tour, electricity is available at all the tea houses where you’ll spend the night. At lower elevations, electricity is primarily generated from hydropower. But at higher altitudes, solar energy is used for lights and power, though it can be affected by poor weather. To be prepared, bringing personal torch lights and power banks is advisable.

Charging electronic devices is possible along the Upper Mustang Overland touring trails, but charging ports are usually not available in individual rooms. Instead, you can charge your device in the common dining room. Keep in mind that some tea houses may charge a nominal fee, typically a few hundred rupees, for charging your smart phone and camera.

It’s advisable to bring two-pin (type C) and three-pin (type D) adapters. However, you can either bring these adapters or buy them in Kathmandu.

12. Group Departure Treks & Private Treks

We conduct Group Departure Treks as well as Private Treks. If you have your own group, we provide you discounts based on your group size.

However, you will not get discounts for groups we assemble or our Fixed Group Departure Treks. For a group of 12 or more, we add an assistant guide. You can choose to conduct a private trek exclusively for your team.

13. Trip Extension

After completing the tour, you may want to stay a couple of days extra in Nepal. There are many beautiful and adventurous places in Nepal.

You can spend your time in various ways, such as sightseeing in Kathmandu, Nagarkot View Trip, Chitwan Jungle Safari, paragliding, White Water Rafting, and canoeing before flying back.

14. Guide to Overcoming Challenges on Upper Mustang Overland Tour

The Upper Mustang Overland Tour offers an unforgettable adventure, but travelers should be prepared to handle a few key challenges that come with exploring such a remote Himalayan region. The rugged, off-road terrain can mean long, bumpy drives each day, so bringing travel pillows, motion sickness remedies, and maintaining a flexible mindset will help ensure comfort. High altitude (reaching up to 3,800 meters) can pose risks of mild altitude sickness, so it’s essential to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and know the signs of altitude issues. Limited modern amenities are part of the charm, but travelers should prepare for basic lodges, occasional power cuts, and limited Wi-Fi access. To help overcome these challenges:

  • Pack essential medicines for headaches, motion sickness, and digestive issues
  • Keep an adaptable attitude and embrace the slow pace of mountain travel
  • Follow your guide’s advice on altitude and cultural etiquette
  • Prepare mentally for simple accommodations and long road hours
  • Carry snacks, entertainment, and power banks for long stretches without shops or charging points

By preparing wisely and keeping a positive, adventurous spirit, travelers can fully enjoy the raw beauty and rich culture that make the Upper Mustang Overland Tour so unique and rewarding.

15. Medical Facilities at Upper Mustang Overland Tour Region

Medical facilities in the Upper Mustang Overland Tour region are very limited due to its remote location and sparse population. Small health posts or clinics can be found in larger villages like Lo Manthang or Jomsom, but they generally provide only basic first aid and minor medical care, lacking advanced treatment or emergency response services. For any serious health issues or altitude-related emergencies, evacuation to Pokhara or Kathmandu is necessary, often requiring a helicopter rescue. That’s why it’s highly recommended that travelers come prepared with a personal medical kit (including altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, bandages, and any personal prescriptions) and ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation. Traveling with an experienced guide who is trained in first aid and knows the local resources adds an extra layer of safety on this high Himalayan journey.

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